A Systematic Literature Review of Governance Factors for Smart Hydroponic Information Systems

Abstract

Smart hydroponic information systems integrate hydroponic cultivation with Internet of Things (IoT), sensing, automation, real-time monitoring, and data-driven decision support. Although prior research has largely focused on technical development, governance factors affecting implementation, adoption, and long-term sustainability remain insufficiently synthesized. This study systematically reviews governance-related factors in smart hydroponic information systems and transferable digital-agriculture contexts. It examines: (1) frequently discussed governance factors, (2) their categorization into strategic, organizational, technological, data, and security dimensions, and (3) implementation challenges and research gaps. Using a Systematic Literature Review supported by VOSviewer keyword co-occurrence analysis, 25 of 200 records retrieved from Scopus and IEEE Xplore met the eligibility and quality criteria. The findings identify three themes: sustainability and deployment, digital intelligence and information capability, and technical implementation and monitoring infrastructure. Recurring governance factors include strategic alignment, economic and investment feasibility, user capability and adoption readiness, interoperability and technology reliability, data quality and decision-support capability, and cybersecurity controls. Smart hydroponic research remains technology-centered, while governance is often addressed indirectly. Key challenges include fragmented integration, sustainability–feasibility trade-offs, adoption barriers, infrastructure readiness, and limited attention to cybersecurity and data governance. This review further proposes an evidence-based governance framework that links five governance dimensions with implementation mechanisms, practical challenges, and expected outcomes for smart hydroponic information systems.